Cholesterol
- Cholesterol is a fat essential for hormone production, cell building, and metabolic functions.
- It is produced by the liver and obtained through diet.
- High cholesterol levels can lead to fatty deposits in blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- There are two main types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol ('bad' cholesterol) and HDL (good' cholesterol).
- In Australia, one-third of adults have high cholesterol due to factors like diet, obesity, lack of exercise, aging, smoking, and family history.
- To manage cholesterol, lifestyle changes, improved diet, and increased physical activity are crucial.
- Strategies to lower LDL cholesterol include reducing saturated fat intake, using healthy fats, incorporating high-fiber foods, and choosing healthy protein sources.
- Physical activity can raise HDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides.
- Lifestyle modifications include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake,
- Medication might be needed if lifestyle changes aren't enough.